Possible to Raise 1971 Mercury Ourboard and Ethanol Treatment

[Dan Salvin]

I recently acquired a 40 HP, electric start, 1971 Mercury Outboard which is on a 14' deep hull, covered bow aluminum Starcraft. At high speeds, the engine throws a good amount of water up into the transom well. I believe this may be due to the fact that the shaft is too long for the boat. The transom is 16" and the shaft on the Mercury is 21". Is there a way to economically and safety raise the motor a few inches? I have looked at some of the jack plates online but they all seem expensive and too involved. I'm not necessarily looking to raise and lower the motor, I just want to permanently raise it up a few inches to get it where is should be. Also, does anyone have advice on whether I should be using a ethanol treatment in my gas tank? Thanks!

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Possible to Raise 1971 Mercury Ourboard and Ethanol Treatment

Check this thread out http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=321432

Also, do you know you've stumbled upon probably the largest collection of Starcraft enthusiasts on the 'net? Welcome! Make sure you stop down in the Starcraft section and throw up a post with some pics of your boat.

 

[Dan Salvin]

Re: Possible to Raise 1971 Mercury Ourboard and Ethanol Treatment

Thanks. That is great news about the Starcraft enthusiasts! I have not had a boat in a long time and will probably have lots of questions. I will definitely check out the Starcraft section and post a pic.

 

[mindy]

Re: Possible to Raise 1971 Mercury Ourboard and Ethanol Treatment

We just bought a boat & are slowly learning about stuff. We have had several people tell us to put gas treatment in the gas because the ethonal reeks havoc on boat engines. We picked up a bottle of marine treatment at Autozone for $10. At that price I say it's better safe than sorry.